Fire at former funeral home was intentional, investigators determine

Investigators have determined the fire that destroyed the former Burgo Funeral Home Thursday evening was intentional, according to Jennifer Mieth, spokesman for the State Fire Marshal's office.

ANIKA CLARK

NEW BEDFORD — Investigators have determined the fire that destroyed the former Burgo Funeral Home Thursday evening was intentional, according to Jennifer Mieth, spokesman for the State Fire Marshal's office.

She said the investigation has moved to a criminal phase, although no arrests had been made in connection with the fire as of this afternoon.

“The investigative team is hoping that someone in the community might have some information that will help them,” Mieth said.

She urged people with tips to call the state's arson hotline at 1-800-682-9229. The confidential hotline is part of the state's Arson Watch Reward program, which provides rewards up to $5,000 for information that helps solve the case, she said.

Approximately 50 firefighters responded to the scene at Wing and Purchase streets, according to Fire District Chief Scott Kruger. One firefighter was injured when he fell from a fire ladder turntable and was taken to St. Luke's Hospital.